NEWSLETTER August 2019

Official Newsletter of the Austin Seven Register of Qld. Inc. (formed 1967)

Our 46th Annual Static Display is a Success (Report & more Photos inside)

President’s Report 2019 Maybe it’s just me, but 2019 seemed to whiz by in no time. A year ago, I was honoured to step into the role of Club President, a daunting task when you look at the people who have held the role over the previous 50 plus years. But as I suspected would be the case, the Committee and Club members worked hard to make sure I was fully supported. And so for me it’s been a fantastic year, and I’m hoping other members feel much the same. With 100 plus members in the Club and more joining at a steady clip, there’s 100 versions of what happened in 2019, but here’s mine: We started the new club-year with a Saturday run, followed by a static display at the Morningside School of Arts the following day. The new venue for our display proved to be an excellent choice with lots of room to park the cars, plenty of options for coffee, and no end of inquisitive locals wanting to know more about our cars. While we had a great selection of A7s on display, there was one that grabbed lots of attention and that was Stacy Curtis’s sports. It was no surprise that Stacy walked away with the People’s Choice Award, and I’m guessing Ted was chuffed with the result. From one display to another, in September we had a strong contingent attend the All British Day. Not long after that event, several members headed off for a weekend at Gatton and the LAMA rally. We had a great time, only spoilt by Doug dropping parts on the road and expecting those following to collect and deliver them to Gatton. Of course, this came after he dropped a wheel at the Club car park the month before. The end of 2019 had plenty going on: Tingalpa Pioneer Village, Brighton and Fort Lytton were all visited by A7s during various internal and external events. The Christmas Party moved to a new venue and, as expected, 1

it was a great success. It was uplifting to look around at the Party and see so many people catching up over a meal and a drink. It reinforced what a great club we are all part of. 2019 arrived and 26 of us attended the traditional New Year’s Breakfast. On the plus side, I remember that Alan was well behaved with only minimal flirting with the waitresses. On the downside, we said goodbye to Lindsay and Sharon who were leaving for a few years in Indonesia. Maybe my favourite memory of this month was taking a special guest out for morning tea at the Moore’s. I’d been contacted by a gentleman whose Canadian father drove an Austin from Townsville to Cairns in ’66 and he was back in Brisbane for a short visit. It felt great to give this adventurer another drive in an Austin. February and March came and went with two great runs, Valentine’s Day and the Librarian’s Run. The former was a happy run out to the park for morning tea, then on to the bay for fish and chips. The singular problem was that our rally organiser, Justin, had a brake pivot decide that it wanted to move out of its original home. No fear, with the help of Russell we got it patched up and going again. That’s one of the great things about our Club runs, there’s always someone there to help if things go awry. As expected, the Librarian’s Run was executed with all the simplistic beauty of the Dewey Decimal System - thanks Alan. The only thing wrong with having a cracking Librarian’s Run is that it puts pressure on the President to make sure his is up to scratch. Happy to report that we got through it okay, despite being caught in a Sunday morning gridlock on Roma Street! We were delighted that so many people could make the run and then enjoy a BBQ out at Fig Tree Pocket. When May arrived, it was time to descend on Bundaberg for the Bundy Bash. Too many highlights to mention here, but what must be said is that Ann and Brian Brindley run a great show. Like so many of our members, the Brindleys donated countless resources to make sure the rest of us had a trip to remember. A cameo appearance by Lindsay and some of our country members made for a memorable week. No members of the A7 Register will be representing Australia in lawn bowls at the 2020 Olympics. That was my observation after a few ends at the Camp Hills Bowls Club. We ended up there after a very enjoyable winter run. Lots of chatter and plenty of laughs as bowls went horribly off course. But if anyone is going to be a rep-player, they might have the last name of Potts, as those lads seemed to get the hang of it pretty quickly. So that’s my memory of the year, but what’s yours? Hopefully, like me, you’ve had a great time and can reflect on how lucky we are to be part of an active club. But it’s not luck that makes a club, it’s because of who is in it and what they do. We are blessed to have an active Committee who work tirelessly for the Club. It’s not by chance that all our meetings are minuted, our runs organised, our finances kept in check, newsletters prepared, website updated, and library maintained. Not to mention our spare parts - I doubt there is another club in Australia that has access to spares the way we do, for many clubs the spare parts are available only once a month! And so a big thanks from me to the Committee who get all these jobs done without fail. Membership for the period showed modest growth, with a net increase of around 5 members for the period. Attendance at our monthly meetings has been steady, with the average number of members being around 20, and on a few occasions we nudged 30. For many the tyranny of distance keeps them from attending, but for the Brisbane locals I’d strongly suggest you come along when you have the opportunity. The meetings are professional but always held in good humour, and everyone is welcome to participate as much or as little as they like. What’s more, there’s always a tasty supper after the formalities have been dealt with. How our Club performed financially over the period is a question that should always be asked. Full details are available in the Treasurer’s Report, but the highlights of the 2018/19 financial year are a modest increase in membership dues and a near 50% increase in the sale of parts. The Club has minimal liabilities and our bottom line shows a small increase in retained earnings to a very healthy $42,401 (more on this below). What does 2020 hold for the Austin Seven Register? For sure there’ll be lots more runs, weekends away and time spent with those we choose to be our motoring family. But there are a few things I believe will need to address in the new year. We have a healthy bank balance thanks to hard work over previous years. I’ve got some thoughts about future expenditure, but as a club we need to have some comprehensive discussions about this. Whatever expenditure we choose, we must ensure the club stays financially stable and any benefit should be felt by the wider club, not just by a certain region or type of member. On a more mundane note, we need to review our Constitution and ensure that we continue to operate in accordance with the guidelines set out in legislation. This is a function that the Committee has already turned their attention to, but at some point it will be up to all members to decided if changes are needed and if so, what they should be.

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In closing, I’d like to thank all members for their support over the last year. In an age of Netflix and Face book when traditional clubs like ours might seem ‘old fashioned’, I’m proud to be part of the A7 Register, a club that supports its members, enjoys a laugh, a drive, and afterwards a social drink and a good meal. Steve Davidson - President Austin 7 Register of Qld. Inc

A7 Register of Qld. AGM - 10th August 2019

Whilst the executive stepped down, Lindsay Jordan stepped in to run the AGM and Election of club officers for 2019/2020. The result was pretty predictable, except that we have Brett Reif as our new Vice- President as Duncan Logan had to step down due to a rather special work assignment. The results are as follows:- President: Steve Davidson 0418 814 501 Vice President: Brett Reif Secretary: Robyn Clark (07) 3800 1965 Treasurer: John Que (07) 3396 0882 Editor: Tim Braby 0405 740 418 Spares/Tech: Trevor Moore (07) 3848 5575 Second Hand Parts: Doug Clark (07) 3800 1965 Runs & Events Coordinator: Neil Thyer (07) 32179880 Webmaster: Neil Thyer (07) 32179880 Dating Officer (North side): Tim Braby 0405 740 418 Dating Officer (Southside): Trevor Moore (07) 3848 5575 Librarian: Alan Couser (07) 33499628 QHMC Representatives: Steve Davidson & Justin McKeering Raffle " Stinger": Valda McDowell

The A7RQ Inc. On Line We have a website which you can view at. Here you can find past newsletters, rally reports and a regularly updated list of events. All our websites have now been updated with photos and reports of our last runs. austin7.org.au/events & Face book Austin7 Register of Qld Inc.

AUSTIN 7 REGISTER OF QLD. CLUB EVENTS FOR 2019 & Beyond!!

Run Cancellation: Please note that if there is any doubt that a Run may be cancelled due to extreme weather conditions or any other reason, please ring the particular Rally Organiser or the Run Coordinator, Neil, phone:0431 067 909, early on the morning of the Run and prior to proceeding to the Run start point.

Friday 13th September - A7 Register General Meeting commencing at 7.45pm at Clubroom, Carindale.

Sunday 15th September - Possible Austin 7 Club Rally, please check the website or ring Neil as above

Sunday 22nd September - A7 Register September Event: All British Day at Vivian Street, Tennyson from 8.30am to 2pm. No pre-booking required. Contact Robyn Clark (3800 1965) for more details. Byo Morning Tea & Lunch although food is also available at the venue. A7 members to make own arrangements re. travel, registration on arrival etc.

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Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th October 2019 - A7 Register October Event: LAMA Annual Invitation Run Weekend organised by the Lockyer Antique Motor Association Inc. and commencing in Gatton. Contact Elise Pakeman, Secretary, Ph. (07) 4697 6462 for more details. Members to make their own arrangements re. travel, registration, accommodation etc.

Friday 11th October - A7 Register General Meeting commencing at 7.45pm at Clubroom, Carindale.

Friday 8th November - A7 Register General Meeting commencing at 7.45pm at Clubroom, Carindale.

Sunday 10th November - A7 November Run. Run to be organised by Steve Davidson (0418 814 501) and will commence from Centenary Pool Carpark at 9am. Run details TBA. BYO Morning Tea & Lunch.

.Friday 13th December - A7 Register General Meeting commencing at 7.45pm at Clubroom, Carindale. Members are requested to bring a plate of Christmas Food to share.

Saturday 14th * December - A7 Club Christmas Lunch to be held at Greenbank RSL, 54 Anzac Avenue, Hillcrest 4118. (Runs parallel to Mt. Lindsay Highway, access via Johnstone/ Browns Plains Road). Members are to meet at the venue at 11.30 for 11:45 entry sharp! (meal cost is $17.50) Members are requested to bring along a wrapped unisex Christmas gift per person to the value of $3 to be shared over lunch. As this is an A7 Register event, members are encouraged to drive their A7s. We are allowed to eat till 2pm. Rsvp Robyn Clark by 1 December – Ph. 3800 1965 *NOTE date change from previous newsletters.

Wednesday 29 April to Monday 4 May 2020 - Rocky Run - A7 Register Event: organised by Greg & Kaye Shuker (ph. 0429 911 022). Event details, Rockhampton accommodation and runs are yet to be announced.

19th, 20th, 21st June 2020 - A7 Register May event: Country Run (S.W. of Brisbane?). Run to be organised by Jo & Margaret McCormack (ph 0438 192 788). Come for a leisurely weekend to experience the delights and history of Boonah. Come old, come modern. Stay a day or two or more. Come and see the toys that the Australian Champion Acrobatic Pilot has in his own hangars. The Boonah Motel Managers and the Showgrounds Caretakers are happy to welcome us for the weekend, of the shortest day of the year. No details of venue/runs or accommodation are yet available.

Neil Thyer - A7 Qld Runs & Events Coordinator. ph 0431 067 909

INVITATION tours AND SWAP MEETS (and OTHER EVENTS OF INTEREST)

Saturday August 17th – Veteran Swap at the Veteran Car Club Hall, Carindale - Vintage and Veteran parts.- starts early.

23rd, 24th and 25th August 2019 BVAC 50th Anniversary - www.bvac.com.au Brisbane Vintage Auto Club 50th Anniversary (entries Closed 9th August) - Old Petrie Town, Contact: Graham – 0414 809 498

14th September Gympie Swap Meet & Car Show- Gympie Historic Auto Club. Swap Bookings can be made with the convenor/s Noel and Annette by phone on 5580 2303 or 0408 708 321

Monday 23rd September - Friday 27th September - Austins over Australia- Barossa Valley. - see details December Newsletter Saturday 28th September Historic Commercial Vehicle Assn QLD – Annual Truck Show The Historic Commercial Vehicle Association's 26th. annual "Old Truck and Tractor Show" to be held on Saturday the 28th September, 2019 at the Gatton Showgrounds. Gatton is a leisurely 95 km drive west of Brisbane in the beautiful Lockyer Valley. Each year our show attracts over 150 Veteran, Vintage and Historic vehicles in either restored or un-restored condition as well as trade stands etc. You and your club members are most welcome to come for a run to Gatton and put on display their pride and joy, whether it be a car, wagon, 4

ute, truck, bus, tractor or whatever, free of charge, and join us for an enjoyable day. You will be made most welcome. We have parades around the Showground ring through-out the day with commentary, which is enjoyed by the spectators. This year we are featuring Mack Trucks, irrespective of age, and will be awarding trophies in 8 classes for Mack's attending the show. Entry is free for exhibitors and one passenger. Entry for spectators is $10.00 per head with children under 14 free. This year we are again supporting the Royal Flying Doctors Service. We have the Showgrounds from Friday to Sunday, so feel free to arrive on Friday. Camping is available within the Showgrounds. Food and drinks are also available. If you need further info. please ring Ron Carroll on 0402234657 or visit www.hcvaq.org.au.

Sunday 29th September 2019: (Date to be confirmed) Noosa Beach Classic Car Show 2019. This static display event is to be held at Noosa Heads Lions Park. This is an all models car show and features British vehicles this year. For more information log onto www.noosacarclub.com.au or contact Duncan Logan. Members who wish to attend are to make their own arrangements re. registration, travel, accommodation etc.

Saturday 12th& Sunday 13th October 2019 - Lockyer Antique Assn Invitational Rally - Based in Gatton and the Lockyer Valley. Entry Forms now available Contact: Mary – 07 5462 3136. ENTRY Closes 4th Oct.

10th - 12th April 2020 North Qld. QHMC Rally - hosted by the Townsville Veteran and Vintage Historic Motor Club.

Saturday 2nd - Monday 4th May 2020 Southern Qld. QHMC Rally - hosted by the Darling Downs Veteran and Vintage Motor Club inc.

Tuesday 5th - Wednesday 6th May 2020 DDV&VMC. 50th Anniversary Rally - Darling Downs Veteran and Vintage Motor Club inc. 50th Anniversary Rally based in Toowoomba

Sunday 17th May 2020 National Motoring Heritage Day - Cameron Park, Ipswich. Need to book beforehand with QHMC (due to Council regs?)

2020 28th March to Friday 3rd April 2020 - AHMF Motoring Festival - Albury Wodonga, open to all vehicles over 25 years old - see flyer in December newsletter

2nd, 3rd and 4th May 2020 Darling Downs Vehicle Restorers 50th anniversary more details as they come to hand

2022 - Saturday 9th April to Thursday, 14 April 2022- Austin 7 100 Years - Warrnambool National Rally Any queries Rally Committee at [email protected]

MINUTES OF PAST A7RQ MEETINGS Austin Seven Register of Queensland Inc. Meeting No. 584, 12th June 2019 Held at the Veteran Car Club Hall, Carindale. Meeting Opened: The President declared the meeting opened at 7.50 pm with a welcome to all. Present: 23 members signed the attendance book & 1 visitor Apologies: M & K McGuill, P Baker, M Potts, K Matthew Previous Minutes: Robyn read the minutes of the May Meeting and moved it be accepted as a true and correct record. Seconded by Tim Braby. Carried. Business arising from Minutes: Remote membership. After a discussion by members present, Steve moved we remove remote membership, seconded by Alan Couser. Then Robyn moved we remove the Joining Fee, seconded by Doug Clark. Both Carried. Correspondence: IN Newsletters from other clubs

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Email re date change for LAMA Rally, Gatton, now 12th-13th October 20th October Kalbar Swap QHMC May Minutes Veteran Car Club re our club details OUT: Thinking of you Card to Kathy McGuill Robyn moved the inward correspondence be accepted as read & the outward endorsed. Seconded by Trevor Moore. Carried Business arising from Correspondence: NIL Treasurer’s Report: John gave his report on the club finances, asked for any questions then moved his report be accepted. Seconded by Alan Couser. Carried. QHMC Report: Steve gave this report & reminded members the minutes of the meeting were tabled if anyone wished to read them. Spare Parts Report: Trevor stated a slow month. Stocktaking to be done so will be closed July. Second Hand Parts Report: Doug has had inquiries on parts and made a few sales. Editors Report: Newsletters emailed to members and ready to post to others. Dating Officers Report: NIL Web Masters Report: Neil has updated the web with photos of the Bundy Bash. Club Events: 16th June Ian & Valda McDowell. Meet clubrooms 9am, BYO M/T & Lunch (Camp Hill Bowls) 23rdJune VCCQ Annual Concourse, Ormiston House, 10 am 14th July RACQ Motorfest 10th August A7 BBQ at Clubrooms. Numbers needed by 10th July 11th August A7 Static Display, Morningside School of Arts Hall 22nd Sept All British Day, Tennyson Also Greg & Kaye Shuker are organizing the Rocky Run 29th April to 4th May 2020 Joe & Margaret McCormack organising run 19th to 21st June 2020 Other Events: 15th June Caboolture Swap. Showgrounds 6th July Murwillumbah Swap, Showgrounds 7th July Ipswich Swap, Ipswich North State School 21st July Original Gold Coast Swap, Mudgeeraba Showgrounds 28th July Classic Car Show, Indooroopilly, 7am to 10am 11th Aug Chevy Club Swap, Rocklea Showgrounds 23rd 27th Sept Austins Over Australia, Barossa Valley, SA Past Events: 15th-21st May Bundy Bash (Posted on website) Library Report: Collection of newsletters given to club, including the first few years, from Graham Cogzell and Tim Braby) General Business: Morningside School of Arts Hall booking OK. $120 to be deposited for rent. Car park now bitumen. Raffle made and donated by Neil Thyer, framed lead-light of a Austin 7. Tickets $2 each or 3 for $5 to be drawn at the Static Display Peter & Jo Baker have a new email address. [email protected] Contact John Que if you need a SPEEDO, or Tim Braby for early model CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS. To be noted in the minutes a Thank You to Brian & Ann Brindley for a wonderful job they did in organising the Bundy Bash. Ian & Mary McCorkindale have bought a 1937 Ruby Tourer. Hope they will soon become members. Report on cars &/ Car troubles: Justin McKeering has his motor apart. Birthdays: Members having a birthday in June were wished Many Happy Returns. Raffle: Valda had tickets for sale in tonight’s raffle Sick members wished a speedy return to good health. 6

Supper Organiser: Thank you to Rhonda for tonight’s supper. July organiser= Gail Cahalane Committee Meeting: TBA Next Meeting: 12th July 2019 Meeting closed: Steve apologised for July meeting as he will be away. As there was no further business to discuss he closed the meeting as 8.45 pm wishing all a safe trip home. Austin Seven Register of Queensland Inc. Meeting No. 585, 12th July 2019 Held at the Veteran Car Club Hall, Carindale. Meeting Opened: The Vice President Duncan Logan declared the meeting opened at 7.55 pm with a welcome to all. Present: 19 members signed the attendance book, & 1 Visitor. Apologies: S Davidson, J McCarthy, M & K McGuill, R & R Guthrie, N Thyer, K Matthew. E Moore. Previous Minutes: Robyn read the minutes of the June meeting and moved it be accepted as a true and correct record. Seconded by Tim Braby. Carried Business Arising from Minutes: NIL Correspondence IN: Newsletters from other clubs Card from Aileen Potts re new address Membership renewals & attending A7 BBQ Lunch in August Flyer re All British Day 22nd Sept., St Joseph’s College Sports Grounds, Tennyson 7am to 2 pm $20 per car. Email Cliff Stockley re remote membership Email Laurie Topping re bank details for membership payment (In Spain) 21st July Jumpers & Jazz, Warwick OUT: Newsletters Email reply to Laurie Topping & Cliff Stockley Robyn moved the inward correspondence be accepted as read and the outward endorsed. Seconded by Alan Couser. Carried Business Arising from Correspondence: NIL Treasurer’s Report: John gave a report on the Clubs finances, also stated the books have been audited for the financial year. Asked for any questions, then moved his report be accepted and all bills be passed for payment. Seconded by Trevor Moore. Carried QHMC Report: NIL Spare Parts Report: Trevor reported a quite month & stocktaking has been done. Second Hand Parts Report: NIL Editors Report: Tim reported on the newsletters & also had some 50 year books for sale also past newsletters which will be left in the library. Dating Officers Report: NIL Web Masters Report: Report given by Robyn. Web up to date, & members going to RACQ Motorfest to meet 7am at Hotel carpark. Club Events: 14th July RACE Motorfest, (7 cars going) 10th Aug A7 BBQ Lunch 33adults & 2 children so far 11th Aug A7 Static Display, Morningside School of Arts Hall, 9am to 1 pm. 15th Sept DO members want a run? 22nd Sept All British Day, Tennyson 12th-13th Oct LAMA. Gatton 10th Nov Club run organised by Steve Davidson 15th Dec A7 Christmas Party Lunch. 2020 MARK YOUR DIARY 29th April – 4th May Rocky Run organised by Greg & Kay Shuker 19th-21st June Organised by Joe & Margaret McCormack, Boonah area. 7

Other Events: 19th – 21st July Old Wheels in Motion, Biloela 21sth July Original Gold Coast Swap, Mudgeeraba Showgrounds 27th July Nambour Swap, Showgrounds. (Duncan will sell things for you) 28th July Classic Car Show, Indooroopilly. 7am to 10 am. 11th August Chevy Club Swap, Rocklea Showgrounds 23rd-27th Sept Austins over Australia, Barossa Valley, SA. Past Events: 16th June Barefoot bowling organised by Ian & Valda McDowell. On website 23rd June VCCQ Annual Concourse, Ormiston House. 3 Austin’s, Joe Wilson, Trish Hanley & Robyn Chippendale. Justin McKeering& John Que also attended. Library Report: NIL General Business: Are members happy to go to the Greenbank RSL for our Xmas Party? YES Do members want a club run in September? NO response. John reported on a seminar he had attended at the State Library. Report on Cars &/or car troubles: Tim has had trouble buying a 6 volt battery. Birthdays: Members having a Birthday in July were wished many Happy Returns. Raffle: Valda was selling tickets in tonight’s raffle Sick members wished a speedy return to good health. Supper Organiser: Thank you to Gail Cahalane for tonight’s supper. August organiser: John Que Committee Meeting: TBA Next Meeting: 8th August 2019. Also our AGM so please volunteer for a position. Meeting Closed: As there was no further business to discuss, Duncan closed the meeting at 8.35pm,wishing everyone a safe trip home. Robyn

News of Members and Cars A FAREWELL TO HOWELL Firstly some very, very sad news, former member Howell Whitehouse passed away on the 6th of August. Howell was President from (2003-2005) and Editor (2005-2012). Howell was a professional musical wind instrument repairer, being one of the famous Whitehouse family, manufacturers and repairers of musical organs in every state of Australia, Howell was named after his grandfather Joseph Howell Whitehouse who came from England and set up business in Brisbane from 1897. We will miss Howell very much. Howell had a wonderful dry sense of humour and it was he who introduced the Sneaky Ferret into Club Folklore thru his writings in the newsletter for many years. His memorial in the Courier-Mail describes him as a 'Teacher and mentor to many'. Howell was 89 years old and a great-grandfather. The club attended his send off with 7 Austin 7s and his son in law Peter Waller rode the Royal Enfield that he and Howell restored as a project together.

WELCOME to NEW MEMBERS

Member #355 Ian & Mary McCorkindale of Petrie have bought a 1937 Ruby Tourer, to be on the road VERY SOON. Member #356 David and Sherrie Screen of Andergrove, Mackay - 1928 Roadster (chassis and car number mid 1929, motor very early 1929 - Editor Tim)

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Member #357 Michael and Lynette Gandy of North Rockhampton have a1932 Sports. Looking at the Photos sent it has a fairly faithful replica Ulster body and potentially will make a very nice sports.. TEMPORARY RELOCATION We have members all over the State, some in southern states, even one in Indonesia, but for the first time we will have a member in Antarctica, Duncan Logan, had to step down from the Vice- Presidents role, because he is taking a stint doing maintenance at Casey Station, Duncan will be

away for 15 months, 3 months in Tassie preparing for his assignment, and 12 months actually at Casey Station The Casey Station, commonly called Casey, is one of three permanent bases and research outposts in Antarctica managed by the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD). Casey lies on the northern side of the Bailey Peninsula overlooking Vincennes Bay on the Budd Coast of Wilkes Land in the Australian Antarctic Territory, a territory claimed by Australia. Casey is 3,880 kilometres (2,410 mi) due south of Perth, Western Australia. It is a 4 hour flight from Hobart followed by a 4 hour tractor drive to the Station. Good Luck Duncan! GET WELL MEMBERS: I heard that Allan Wood, Cliff Stockley, Jo Hawthorne and others have been on the sick list lately. We wish you all a speedy and comfortable recovery

The Future of Vintage motoring? Some thoughts from our President

As President of the A7 Register of Queensland, and one of the younger members, the article about the next generation of Austin Tragics in the March edition of Light Shaft grabbed my attention. The words ring true for our club to a degree but I think that maybe we are faring better than some. But in any case the factors that conspire to reduce the number of active owners is something that I’ve been considering for the last few years. Getting the next generation involved in Austins, or any other historical motoring, is something that I’m keen to be involved in and if David’s article has sparked some others to push the cause then I’d love to hear from them. As someone who’ll hit the half century in the next few years I’m aware that if I want to continue to share my passion with other likeminded persons then I need to get that next generation active now or many of our clubs will slowly wilt away.

I’d suggest that possible barriers holding back the next generation include;

1. Lack of appreciation of the benefits of being in a club – my anecdotal observation is that over the last 30 years clubs of all varieties have shrunk or disappeared. While the internet has brought untold 9

advantages maybe it’s also caused society to become more home-bound? Where once people had to leave home if they wanted interaction with people other than their family these days it can be done by looking at a computer screen. My sense is that people do not appreciate the feeling of wellbeing when you get to physically connect with others who share your interest. Emails and internet chat rooms are fine but they can’t replicate that face to face conversation over a drink or bite to eat. It’s too easy on the internet to connect with a narrow band of people who all share your exact views while in a club you often have a central touchstone but a wide variety of thoughts. This is what keeps it interesting. 2. Lack of confidence – I assume that like me a lot of people who grew up in the 70’s onwards did not receive a basic grounding in car maintenance and repair. While I’ve been lucky enough to have countered this by lots of reading and making mistakes others would feel that learning the ropes not is either too hard or their too self-conscious to ask for help. My guess is that there are lots of cars sitting in garages that only need some minor works to get going but if you’ve never set points before or cleaned out a carby it’s daunting. 3. Lack of available cars – I don’t know what it was like to get in the vintage car scene 30 years ago but my impression today is that the pool of cars in Australia is diminishing due to the ease of sending them overseas to the highest bidder coupled with the difficultly of importing cars due to both duties and issues such as asbestos. 4. Lack of time – I hear the older guys in our club lament that while they used to think they were short of money when they first started with their Austin’s what they now know is that they were short of time. Maybe a lack of time has always been an issue? To me it seems that there is no shortage of options when it comes to leisure and more and more it’s about instant an quick gratification, think 20/20 cricket or Netflix. 5. Fear of being the odd one out – Similar to a lack of confidence the fear of being an odd one out could be an issue. When most of the club members have retired from full time work and the new generation are in the prime of their career it’s going to be odd turning up for the first few meetings. 6. Lack of funds to support the hobby – Like any hobby cars need money to purchase and repair. If your starting from scratch the outlays can be a large proportion of a salary. In years gone by there may have been a lot more family, friends and neighbours would could lend tools and knowledge but with the average home size rapidly decreasing, and the current enthusiasts getting older, maybe the pool to draw tools and knowledge from is shrinking. 7. Lack of space – The classic ¼ acre block is a thing of the past in most Australian cities. Where once we had room for shed down the back most homes now have a garage that can barely fit 2 cars in let alone a hobby car and associated tools, benches and the like. So for some people it might just be a case of physical space dictating the decision to pursue other hobbies?

So in the broader sense of historical motoring what can we do? In the first instance I’m keen to establish connections with others who share this concern and are keen to look at what can be done. Possible solutions;

1. Investigate if our peak bodies (for us is the Queensland Historic Motoring Council) are working in this area as I’m sure it’s not confined to Austins. 2. Find out if it’s a similar issue exists in other regions like the UK and if it’s not an issue what have they done to keep new members joining Historic Motoring clubs. 3. Do we need to make more connections between clubs to share resources and knowledge? I’m not proposing another club but are there resources out there that are not being used as economically as possible? 4. Should we publish a series of YouTube videos on how to maintain and repair our cars? The Doug Woodrow Austin Seven Manual or the Austin Seven Companion are brilliant but they do require a degree of basic mechanical knowledge and my observation is that these days everyone is looking for this sort of advice to be on a YouTube clip.

Anyway, getting back to where this started if the Light Shaft article has sparked interest from then I’d love to hear from them.

Thanks Steve Davidson

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The Editor - Mentoring and Batteries At our last Committee Meeting President Steve mentioned that he had written to the Victorian Austin Seven club and the Austin 7 Clubs Association of GB about the future of clubs that cater for older cars. This was promoted by items that were put in the Light shaft Magazine from Victoria. I read Steve's letter and with his permission have included it in this newsletter. I have my own thoughts about this problem I got into old cars via building plastic kits of veteran and vintage cars and reading books and magazines. My father had no mechanical skills except for maybe fixing a tap washer. I bought my first vintage car, before joining a club, it was a big Austin 16/6 tourer in a bit of a mess. I went to join the VCCQ but was not happy with the response my 1928 Austin got ("not sporting enough, old chap, no pedigree"). Luckily I met a lovely old gent called Pym Hills at the meeting who suggested I join the A7 club. Pym owned a Austin 12/4 saloon and had lots of advice regarding restoration. That in turn led me to buy my first A7, a 1930 Chummy. Again luck put me in the way of Trevor and Bev McCulloch, who I became very friendly with and Trev taught me a lot of skills in fixing things on my Chummy, from wiring up tail lights, to making a hood and luggage rack. It was that process of MENTORING that got me involved in the club from an age of 20. (the photo above was taken late 1978 with the Editor in the Austin 16 and the "new" 1930 Chummy) changing subject recently I had bit of bother trying to find a new 6 volt battery for my Ruby saloon to attend the Motorfest, all the usual North side suppliers had none in stock the correct size (roughly 170 x 180 mm). I was going to see about a new Optima dry cell battery but 6 supplies of 6 volt batteries will not available till 5 weeks after I needed it! I ended up getting a slightly larger unit from a supplier at Brendale. After the event Joe McCormack told me he bought a new standard 6 volt battery recently from Ian Fordice at A.C.E.S. Electrical Services., at 117 Dyson Avenue, Sunnybank, 33451386. $140.00. Ian reckons he will always be able to supply 6 volt batteries. As it was my purchase was premature as I had a heavy dose of hay fever and could not attend the RACQ Motorfest! Editor Tim PAST RALLY REPORTS A7 Reg. Qld Winter Run & Lawn Bowls 16 June 2019

Despite the forecast of rain and the possibility of a thunderstorm for today, we woke to a heavy fog and a medium temperature.

Arriving at the Carindale Clubrooms in their A7s for the commencement of our June run were Trev & Elaine, President Steve, Ian & Valda and Matt, Martin & Trent. Arriving in their modern cars were Neil & Karyn, Librarian Alan, Doug & Robyn and Treasurer John.

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At around 9am we set out on what should have been a relatively short run to our morning tea stop. Along the way, however, we encountered some minor traffic disruption caused by the annual Brisbane to the Bay bicycle ride. The run route established by Ian & Valda experienced another minor disruption when it was discovered, quite by accident and through no fault of the organisers, that the rail crossing along Barrack Road was closed for the weekend. Following a detour, we soon found ourselves at our morning tea stop beside the river at Colmslie Reserve. Here we were met by Joe & Margaret in their A7. At morning tea we enjoyed the chatter of our fellow members while observing the adjacent river activities. Towards the end of our morning tea, we noticed another of our members, David, drive by in his Rolls. Back on the road again after morning tea, we once again experienced some minor disruption caused by the bike ride mentioned above. However, we soon arrived at the Camp Hill Bowls Club where we were given a quick lesson on the method of landing a bowl as close as possible to the jack (the small white ball at the other end of the rink). For the next hour and a half, we all successfully demonstrated our lack of skill for the game while maintaining and demonstrating our Club’s characteristic sense of humour. I doubt if any of us will be bowling in the Olympics any time soon! At around 12.30pm we found a large shady tree adjacent to the Bowl’s Club carpark, where we enjoyed our BYO lunch. Following lunch we headed home under a cloudy sky. Our sincere thanks go to Ian & Valda for yet another entertaining A7 run and lawn bowls event. Neil

Pictures below left Valda is about to bowl a delicate "bias" shot while Elaine watches and right Alan lining up for a fearsome "drive" shot to knock out the opposition's ball away from the jack

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Sunday 23th June - VCCQ Annual Concourse

Once again held in the spacious grounds and spectacular bay views of Ormiston House. Weather perfect.

There were 3 Austins. Pictured above is Trish Hanley was there in her A7 as was Joe Wilson in his recently completed Pigsty special A7. David Fletcher's A7 was also there. Joe Wilson won the George Elfick BEST UNDER 1000cc Trophy with his A7 Special with Pigsty engine. Well Done Joe! Next Year is the 65th Concours. A big thanks to President Ronnie Brown and all her team who have worked hard all year to make our club the best it can be. Brian McMillan Editor in Chief - Vintage Car Club of Qld. (Note, if you wish to see lots of excellent photos and more words about this event, Editor Tim can email it to you) RACQ Motorfest - 14 July 2019

A cold morning to start the day as we met at the Hamilton Hotel Car Park, Trevor & Elaine Moore, Doug & Robyn, Alan Couser, Ian & Valda McDowell, in their Austin 7’s and Peter & Gail Cahalane, in their MG leaving at 7.20 am for Eagle Farm Race Track for the 2019 RACQ Motor Fest. This year’s RACQ funds were being donated to the Farmers Drought Relief fund. Ross Guthrie also attended with his Veteran. During the day other members, Justin McKeering, John Que, Matt Potts & Trent, Ian & Mary McCorkindale, Brett & Kylie Reif and girls, as well as Greg Riddel visited our stand. 13

This year was celebrating 100 years of Citroen and 100 years of Bentley Cars which were the Car of the show. Also heaps of Minis of all models and ages, as well as veteran cars. It was reported that there were about 600 cars of all make and models were on display and with a sunny day it turned out an excellent day.

Trevor & Elaine The "ATC Classic Car and Motorbike show" - Sunday 28th July

The Ambrose Treacy College Classic Car and Motorbike show has been missing for a few years but it bounced back with vigour last month. There was something to please everyone with a range that spanned from the 1920’s to modern day. Of course the stars of the show where 4 A7’s that braved a cold start. I’d arrived early to help with the setup as this is Davo’s school and it wasn’t long before Doug and Robyn arrived in the Chummy followed closely by Trevor and Elaine in the ’35 tourer. So that made three of us but before too long we spied Joe and Bev in the new sports. I’d not seen the car on the road before so it was a bit of treat to watch it glide in. Joe’s done a fantastic job in building the car, she looks to be running well and there’s plenty of interesting details for the curious to observe, not the least being the custom fuel tank or the radiator ornament. A wide cross section of cars turned up, more modern classics than historic, but all very interesting. With a snag in one hand and coffee in the other everyone had time to wander around and chat. The police arrived with a few cars and bikes and as far as I know didn’t take anyone away with them. Sometimes a short show is a good show, so by 10am it was time to pack up and head home. Since the show I’ve received plenty of comments about how everyone loved seeing the A7’s so a big thanks to everyone who attended, you put a smile on a lot of faces. Steve & Davo A7 Reg. Qld. Weekend Lunch - 10 August 2019

At a recent A7 General Meeting, it was decided that for our A7 Weekend, instead of an organised run on Saturday (traffic is often very busy on Saturdays), we should have a members’ BBQ lunch at our Clubrooms. As the day is still an official event on our schedule, members were encouraged to drive to and from lunch in their A7.

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At around 11am on Saturday 10th August, members started to arrive for lunch at our Clubrooms at Carindale. Arriving in their A7s were Joe & Bev, Trevor & Elaine, Doug & Robyn, President Steve, Merv & Margaret, Racing Justin and Duncan & Crystal. Arriving in their modern cars were Neil & Karyn, Mike & Kathy, Ross & Rhonda, Librarian Alan, Ian & Valda, Vice-President Brett, Peter & Jo, Ron & Daphne & Treasurer John. In all, 27 A7 members were present. The BBQs were soon fired up and the table was set with an amazing array of rolls, salads, nibbles and fruit. As you would expect, the male contingent attempted to display their cooking prowess while sharing a few yarns and jokes over the grill. The BBQ Head Chefs were Trevor and Steve – neither would be any chance in an audition for “Master Chef”. In the end though, the steak, sausages, bacon and beef rissoles were excellent, to the delight of the meat consuming members. Following our main course, a terrific array of cakes and sweets were set on the table. A dessert highlight was a special A7 sponge cake to celebrate the day. Following a brief speech by President Steve to thank those present for attending and all those members who contributed to the success of the lunch, he proceeded to ceremoniously cut the cake for all to share. Before, during and after lunch, the usual congenial conversation (and more than occasional comical harassment) provided entertainment for those present. To put it simply, good venue, good food, good company. With full bellies and around 2pm, there was a general movement to clean up the venue and make our way home – for some the usual afternoon doze may have been long overdue! The event turned out to be a huge success with good member attendance. Our thanks go to all the helpers, and especially to Secretary Robyn, for organising this memorable event. Neil A7 Annual Static Display - Morningside School of Arts 11 August 2019 As was the case last year, a bright, cloudless and cool breezy morning greeted our A7 Austineers at around 9am as they arrived at our 2019 Static Display venue, the Morningside School of Arts in Morningside Village on Wynnum Road. An added advantage of the venue this year was the sealed carpark that had recently been completed. Arriving in their A7s were President Steve, Doug & Robyn, Trevor & Elaine, Ian & Valda, Librarian Alan, Neil &Karyn, Racing Justin, Joe & Charlie, Duncan & Crystal, Russell & Vanda, Matt, Martin & Trent, Tim, Brett, Kylie, Clare & Tessa, Ian W and Peter & Nell. Arriving in their modern cars were Mike & Kathy, John &Twink, Peter & Gail, Colin & Nancy, Barry & Molly, Ken & Irene, Greg R and Darren, Kirsten & Hayden. As usual, our Secretary Robyn was quick to set up her event table, while others of us prepared the venue for the day. Justin also set up his interesting display of racing trophies that he had achieved in recent times. Our A7 display attracted lots of attention. Many passing vehicles were quick to U-turn to view more closely the variety of cars on display. It didn’t go unnoticed that there seemed to be no shortage of mechanical expertise when it came to doing some minor adjustments to Brett’s carbie. Throughout the morning our members indulged in the usual level of ultra-intelligent conversation including all things political, international and, of course, A7. At both morning tea and lunch time, members took advantage of the excess tucker from our lunch yesterday. Our thanks go to President Steve for cooking the snags and steak. At around 12.45pm, President Steve called on members present to assemble for the formal proceedings of the day. Firstly, Steve thanked those present for attending on the day; secondly, there were presentations for various award categories. Steve handed out the Pride of Ownership certificates to all those driving their A7s on the day. The worthy winner of the People’s Choice Award was Joe Wilson. The raffle of the timber-framed glass leadlight A7 was then drawn and the lucky winners were Nell & Peter Dorman. The 2018/19 winners of the Cam & Judy McCulloch Best Run Supporter were Doug & Robyn (once again!).Congratulations to all our winners. Just after 1pm, the A7s were cranked up and Morningside Village experienced the sweet sound of our prestige A7s as they made their way home (or onto their parked trailers). As usual, our thanks go to Robyn for once again organising this successful annual event. Neil 16

Photos this column Photos this column Top - Joe Wilson's Pig Sty Special Top - Peter and Nell's 1933 Spare Parts Sports Special Mid - Brett's Box Saloon gets the Godfather's Mid - Nell accepts Neil's wonderful lead light A7 blessing from Peter and Joe Btm - Neil and Karyn's Roadster sits next to Alan's Btm - Russell and Vanda's Guard Pup Chummy 17

Top - Brett and Kylie Reif's 1933 Box Saloon Top - The Editor's 1936 Ruby finally made it! Btm - Matt Pott's 1930 Chummy Btm - Loaded to go home, the Dorman's sports ------oooOOOOooo------ASK THE EXPERTS

Question. Could you ask if anyone knows how to connect the foot brake with the front brake on a 1929 chassis. Originally had a handbrake only for the front brake. Foot brake operated rear only. K Answer. Well K, that is a big ask. The only effective way was to source a late 1930 -32 short wheel chassis with coupled brakes, and either change the whole chassis or graft the centre longitudinal chassis member with the appropriate cross shaft and hand brake mechanism. I will ask the Editor to put in the newsletter see if someone else has a simpler solution. I have seen a car with extra levers attached to the cross shaft but it looked rather bodgie to say the least! (PLEASE NOTE THIS COULD BE A CONTINUING SERIES. THE EDITOR INVITES ENQUIRIES AND WILL SOLICITE ANSWERS FROM OUR MANY "EXPERTS".) Austin 7 Classifieds

Please note: to avoid congestion, adverts will only be printed for 3 issues (6 months) depending on space. If you have also sold or found that item you wanted PLEASE tell the Editor.

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FOR SALE: Early 3 speed box. Fully rebuilt at a cost of over $2000 by John Needham. Yours for $1500. Joe Wilson 07/ 3378 5379 or [email protected]

FOR SALE c1929 Austin 7 Chummy -Project car built up from a collection of parts. Fairly complete except for missing hood and back seat. Has been running. Has coupled brakes and Fiat Toppolino bucket front seats. Full history over the last 50 years. Car in Brisbane.Thinking about $5K but will consider realistic offers. Please Contact Greg Riddel on 0417 794 549 for details and to see the car. FOR SALE: 1938 Austin Seven Sports Special

Selling my Austin 7 and all spare parts/equipment/trailer with winch etc. Spare overhauled 4 speed synchro gear box.1937 head, all tools etc. The car is not registered but near completed ( a week's work required to finish).

1939 Austin 14/6 Roadster, the only one of its kind, very rare. Part finished and needs to be finished, all there but for a windscreen (easily made, I have the posts ) and all chroming done. All new rubbers etc. Engine restored, new radiator. Photo above on the left is my actual car, the other was wrecked in Proserpine many years ago. This car I got the hydraulic shockers from.) The Austin 14 has a small bore 1711cc side valve six cylinder engine. Not common, body by Charles Hope. A7 books A7 Brooklands Books 1922-1982. A7 Competition cars 1922-1982 & A7 Competition History 1922-39. Post-War Baby Austins A30-A35-A40 - Barney Sharratt.

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A7 Source book - Bryan Purves. A7 1936 spare parts. Austin 12 Handbook. & Spare parts books A7 Overhaul manual-Woodrow. Lucas Service book. A7 Companion - 750 Motor Club.. All Expressions of Interest for both cars and books Please Contact Barry Leeming by email to [email protected] or Mob. 0412 771 800. ------oooOOOOooo------Photos from the Archives - The Brisbane Sunday Mail 1936 Going thru some old papers the Editor discovered a very brittle copy of the Brisbane Sunday Mail from the 6th of September 1936 and thought members would like to see these two adverts. The First is McIntosh Motors of Adelaide Street (I wonder where Desmond Chambers was?), advertising the Austin 10/4 Litchfield Saloon for 326 pounds but more interesting for us is "Complete Austin 7 Cars from 199 Pounds (plus sales tax.)" For that price I would think it was the 2 seater Roadster, or the Business Roadster with the extended hood for the travelling sale man. Last year you will remember out features on Charles Hope Body works, well this second advert shows that Hopes could repair your road springs and at the same time replace a tired hood or scuffed mudguards. EDITOR/PUBLISHER Tim Braby, 43 Arcola Street Aspley Brisbane Q4034 Mob 0405740 418 H. 07 3359 2086 email [email protected] DISCLAIMER While all care is taken to ensure the articles and events in this newsletter are accurate as possible, the Austin Seven Register of Qld. Inc. and the Editor take no responsibility for errors, omissions or content. Also, the opinions expressed by the Editor and contributors are not necessarily the views of the Committee of the Austin Seven Register of Qld.

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